The Dokolo District Woman representative seat in Parliament has garnered significant attention, with at least 14 individuals expressing interest in succeeding the late incumbent, Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal, who passed away on January 18.
According to electoral laws, the vacant seat must be filled within 60 days of its occurrence, prompting a flurry of aspirants to vie for the position.
Among the contenders is Dr. Rosemary Alwoc Ogwal, daughter of the late Cecilia Ogwal, who has been endorsed by her family as a potential successor. Dr. Alwoc is yet to determine whether she will run as an Independent candidate, or under the banner of either the National Resistance Movement (NRM) or the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). Her candidacy has added to the roster of candidates, bringing the total number to 14.
Other notable candidates include Ms. Esther Akullo Owor Otada, Ms. Sarah Aguti Nyangkori of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) party and Ms. Janet Rose Adong Elau of the NRM, both of whom contested against the late Ogwal in the 2021 General Election.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has set March 21 as the polling date for the by-election and has released a comprehensive roadmap for the electoral process. In preparation for the polls, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama visited Dokolo District to engage with stakeholders and underscore the importance of their cooperation and support in ensuring a smooth electoral exercise.
Justice Byabakama highlighted additional vacancies at the Local Government Council levels, emphasizing the need to fill these positions concurrently with the parliamentary by-election. These vacancies include positions such as the councillor for Adakmon Parish in Dokolo Sub-county and the councillor for Bata Sub-county representing older persons.
Dr. Alwoc Ogwal, in an interview, emphasized the importance of transparency throughout the electoral process, particularly in facilitating voter registration for individuals who have turned 18 since 2021.
The electoral roadmap includes key milestones such as updating the voters’ register, nomination of candidates, and conducting campaign meetings, leading up to the polling day on March 21.
As Dokolo District gears up for the by-election, the race to replace Cecilia Ogwal continues to intensify, with candidates vying to earn the mandate of the electorate and carry forward the legacy of their predecessor.
